Seattle's Central District was filled with excitement as the first annual Besa's Buy Black Card Brunch filled Simply Soulful Cafe with a sold-out crowd. The event, a vibrant celebration of Black culture, cuisine, and entrepreneurship, exemplifies the strength of community and the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses.

The brunch was a collaborative effort between Besa Gordon, the charismatic host of Back2Besa on FOX 13 and FOX SOUL, and Laura Clise, the founder and CEO of the Intentionalist. This partnership amplified the event's impact, highlighting the importance of intentional spending and community support. As Laura Clise eloquently put it, "The Buy Black Card is all about facilitating that connection to and support for the Black-owned businesses at the heart of our communities."

The Buy Black Card is a prepaid Mastercard debit card that can be used exclusively at participating Black-owned businesses. The card functions as a convenient and impactful way to support these businesses. It simplifies the process of intentionally spending at Black-owned establishments, making it easier for consumers to align their actions with their values.

BECU's generous support makes purchasing a Buy Black Card even more rewarding. With their 20% discount on Buy Black Cards, you can make a bigger impact at your favorite businesses. This partnership highlights BECU's dedication to economic equity and strong local communities. 

Simply Soulful Cafe, owned by Lillian Rambus, provided the perfect backdrop for the brunch. Guests indulged in a delectable spread of Southern-inspired dishes, creating a truly memorable experience. Lillian expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to showcase her business, stating, "We're excited to be on the historical corner of 23rd and Jackson, continuing the historical legacy of Black-owned businesses in the CD."

The brunch was more than just a meal; it was a celebration of community and culture. DJ D-DOXX kept the energy high, while attendees mingled, networked, and enjoyed the lively atmosphere. Monika C. Mathews, founder and CEO of QueenCare, described the vibe as "supportive," adding that "people really want to spend their dollars in a more intentional way."

A highlight of the event was the promotion of the Buy Black Card, an initiative by the Intentionalist that encourages consumers to support Black-owned businesses. Thanks to BECU, every brunch ticket holder received a $50 Buy Black Card, making the event even more impactful. Monika C. Mathews shared her experience with the card, stating, "It allows for our existing customers to enjoy a deep discount, but then also it attracts new customers to us as well."

The network of businesses accepting the Buy Black Card is rapidly expanding. It includes a diverse range of businesses, from well-established names like QueenCare, Simply Soulful, Communion, and Fat's Chicken and Waffles to emerging favorites like Dreamers Ice Cream and Pizza by Ruffin. This variety ensures that cardholders have ample opportunities to discover and support a wide array of Black-owned businesses in their community.

Besa's Buy Black Card Brunch was a resounding success, showcasing the vibrancy and resilience of Black-owned businesses and fostering a sense of connection and solidarity. As the Buy Black Card initiative continues to gain momentum, events like this play a crucial role in driving economic empowerment and strengthening communities.

Learn More: www.Intentionalist.com

Photos by Susan Fried on behalf of Converge Media